It’s so easy to stick to tried-and-true travel destinations when costs seem prohibitive for more far-flung getaways. Now Globus is making it easier to get adventurous, with a new promotion that discounts exotic travel by up to $500 per person, for 2013 vacations booked by Oct. 2. Destinations include Africa, Latin America, the South Pacific and Asia, and the savings lead in at $150 per person off select Hawaii vacations and range upward to $200 off Asia and Africa and $300 off Latin America trips. South Pacific itineraries also benefit from a $300 discount, while Australia trips featuring rail travel on the iconic Ghan Train through the Outback have been reduced by $450. The biggest savings - $500 per person - apply to Globus’ 10-day Discover Japan, with three nights each in Tokyo and Kyoto, one night in Kanazawa and two nights in Takayama, and cultural experiences including a calligraphy lesson and Japanese cooking class. See globusjourneys.ca.

TASTE MONTREAL

Hard to believe but up until now, hip, happening and always delicious Montreal did not have a restaurant week. That’s about to change with TASTE MTL, taking place Nov. 1 – 11. Just like Toronto’s Winterlicious and other dining events in destinations like New York and San Francisco, TASTE MTL will offer special prix-fixe dinner menus at top restaurants across the city, at three price levels ($19, $29 and $39), plus in some cases a late-night menu for night owls (for $19). No coupons or passes are needed, just a reservation at a participating restaurant. A complete list available at tastemtl.com. More than 70 establishments have signed on for the event so far, in downtown Montreal as well as Mount Royal and Outremont, Old Montreal, Rosemont and The Village. Prices do not include taxes or gratuity. See tastemtl.com.

LABOUR DAY IN THE KAWARTHAS

Viamede Resort on Stoney Lake in the Kawarthas is fighting the end of summer, literally, with Viamede’s Water War on Sat. Sept. 1, on Labour Day long weekend. Every guest gets a water gun and the soaking starts at 12 p.m. and runs until 4 p.m. Sure to be a hit with kids (and more than a few adults), the Water War is just one activity available for the weekend – there’s also a spa, full marina with canoe and kayak rentals and Viamede Farm with ducks, pigs and more. On Sun. Sept. 2 the marina staff will be on hand for more games including canoe races and disc golf. Guests who stay both Friday and Saturday night get Sunday night for half-price. See viamede.com.

BEST BUY OF THE WEEK

Oceania Cruises is offering two-for-one cruise fares as well as free airfare plus bonus savings worth up to $3,000 (U.S.) per stateroom for sailings on its new 1,250-passenger Riviera. The ship makes its debut this November, sailing to the Caribbean out of Miami. Bookings must be made by Sept. 30. See the ‘Winter Wonders, 2012 – 2013 Voyages’ section under the ‘Promotions’ link at oceaniacruises.com.

Kathryn Folliott is a Toronto-based freelance writer. Prices quoted are subject to change and availability.

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